Jake Lockett’s time at Firehouse 51 has officially come to an end, and the actor isn’t hiding how bittersweet it feels to say goodbye. But as fans mourn the loss of firefighter Sam Carver, one of Lockett’s former co-stars is reminding him that better things are on the horizon.
Jake Lockett Bids an Emotional Farewell
After three seasons on Chicago Fire, Deadline confirmed in April that Jake Lockett would not return for Season 14. His exit follows that of Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter), marking a major shift for the series as it enters its fourteenth season.
On April 28, Lockett addressed his departure in a heartfelt Instagram post:
“While I don’t exactly know what the future looks like, I do know that it won’t be exactly what it was and I am going to miss the hell out of that. So much pride in this journey. It’s been an honor bringing Sam to life and to every one of you, thank you for the love and support over the past three years.”
He went on to thank his castmates and the behind-the-scenes family who made his experience memorable, sharing clips of on-set moments:
“And most importantly, the people that I was on the ground with day and night… thank you for the family you are and times you have been and will be there for me.”
Support From Chicago Fire Alumni
The post quickly drew responses from fans and fellow cast members alike. Jocelyn Hudon, who plays paramedic Lyla Novak, left a simple heart emoji in solidarity. But it was Rome Flynn, who briefly starred as Derrick Gibson in Season 12, who offered some of the most encouraging words.
“Jakeyyy. Just know the grass IS greener & you’re meant for something great. Happy I got to share the screen w you.”
Lockett replied with gratitude:
“Thanks Rome. I’m feeling that. And same! Glad to see you doing your thing out there!”
Rome Flynn Knows the Feeling
Flynn himself had a short-lived but memorable run on Chicago Fire. Introduced in Season 12 as firefighter Derrick Gibson, his character struggled with personal demons before abruptly leaving the firehouse after six episodes. Flynn later told Variety that he, too, was sad to say goodbye so soon:
“Just like all the fans, I was sad to see Gibson leave. He was a character I very much enjoyed playing. I had a wonderful experience during my time on Chicago Fire and have great respect for the cast and crew and hope to team up with Dick Wolf again when the time is right.”
A Brotherhood Beyond the Firehouse
The exchange between Lockett and Flynn underscores what Chicago Fire has always been about: family—on screen and off. Even as cast members come and go, the bonds forged in Firehouse 51 often carry beyond the show itself.
And while fans may be saying goodbye to Carver, both Lockett and Flynn’s stories prove that sometimes, leaving the firehouse means stepping into something even greater.
🔥 Chicago Fire airs Wednesdays at 9 p.m. ET on NBC, with new episodes streaming the next day on Peacock.
